It's the perfect time of year to enjoy this ‘tempting’ fruit in a variety of ways. November is Apple Month and the options are endless for both sweet and savory apple dishes.

Did you know that in Virginia alone, an average of 5-6 million bushels of apples are produced on an annual basis? And a family visit to one of our many local orchards is a great way to spend the day.  Visit the Virginia is for Lovers website to view a list of orchards where you can pick your own apples, sample apple doughnuts or even participate in an apple sling shot contest! Click here to visit their site and find an apple festivity close to home! 

And once you get those perfectly picked apples back home, it’s time to start cooking! The Food Network boasts dozens of recipes all featuring apples of all kinds. Try a Caramel Apple Cake or mix it up and try something a little different like Baked Apples with Fennel  - a delicious and savory side dish. 

While you are enjoying your favorite apple dish you can do so without guilt.  Apples are rich in phyto-nutrients and antioxidants which help promote health and prevent disease. So as the old adage goes, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” is true!